Medical experts say the use of pain-killers, especially NSAIDS (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) damages the tubules in the kidneys, which often leads to kidney failure. Though at times the problem is reversible, but mostly the problem persists.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents/analgesics (NSAIAs), are a class of drugs that provide analgesic (pain-killing) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, and, in higher doses, anti-inflammatory effects. These are not suitable for diabetes patients.

Emphasising that not all pain killers are dangerous for diabetes patients, Gadge said diabetes patients should use pain killers such as tramadol which are safer from kidney perspective.

Prateek Saikia, diabetologist of Safdarjung has said pain killers cause damage of the tubules in the kidneys and leads to increase in creatinine.

"The problem is not always reversible. It may lead to acute renal failure patient may need dialysis and rarely even die," said Saikia.

According to the WHO, India is a home to 65 million diabetic patients, the number being second only to China.

Analysis by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences recently revealed that change in lifestyle with lack of sleep were among the top reasons behind the occurrence of the disease.

"Diabetes patients should avoid certain antibiotics like amikacin (if they have already existing kidney problem). Also certain antibiotics like Gatifloxacin can cause severe fluctuations in blood sugar levels and can be dangerous," said Saikia.

Only in India the healthcare financing is very small when compared to the financing by the other forces rather than the patient himself or herself paying out of pocket. Having 70-75% of the expenses as out-of-pocket, in my opinion, is not a right approach to managing healthcare in a country where the patients tend to sub-optimally purchase healthcare if he/she has to pay out-of-pocket.